The SNP Na h-Eileanan an Iar branch has thrown its support behind preserving the centuries old Guga tradition as the Scottish Government considers the future of this year’s annual hunt to Sula Sgeir.

The intervention comes after NatureScot published three options on the future of the hunt, including recommending that this year’s expedition should not go ahead, following an online petition to the Scottish Parliament calling for the tradition to be banned.

The local SNP branch says island communities must have their voices heard before any decision is made and has also condemned abusive online comments directed at people in the Western Isles during the campaign.

SNP Na h-Eileanan an Iar convenor Angie Mopp Macdonald said:

“Islanders have lived alongside nature for centuries.

“The comments from someone who doesn’t even live here to label people in our community as inbred or thugs are not only insulting but downright dangerous to individuals in our community.

“I’d gently encourage the campaigners that they show the same amount of respect for local islanders and our traditions as they appear to do for gannets if they want to get the community onside instead of posting sickening online remarks behind a computer screen.”

The branch says it supports preserving the long established island tradition while recognising that environmental considerations should also form part of the decision making process.

Angie Mopp Macdonald added:

“The SNP branch backs preserving our local traditions and our island heritage.

“We urge the Scottish Government to take island views into account before making a decision.

“Environmental concerns must ultimately also be in line with those of the local community, first and foremost.”